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1st Published, Dec. 2004
Updated Feb. 2007

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Wireless - Basic Configuration.

In order to connect to the Internet or your own
Network a Wireless computer needs a Wireless Source.

In case that the Wireless source is Not your own, you need to find out (from the
owner) what is the parameters of the connection. Use the method as described on
this page to type in the parameters into your Wireless computer configuration
menus.

If the Wireless source is your own, i.e. you have a Wireless Cable/DSL Router,
or an Access Point. Read carefully the Router's manual to make sure that the
Router is ready for Wireless “Action”. In most case the Default setting of a
Wireless Router are set so the basic unsecured communication can be obtained
easily.

Please Note that the following describes the general principles of configuring
the Wireless, there is No standard interface to Wireless devices, and each
manufacturer is doing its own “Song, and Dance”. So read the manuals first to be
familiar with your hardware menu structure.

Install the drivers on the Client
Computer (follow the Wireless card instructions).

After installation check
Windows Device manager to make sure that every thing is OK, and there is no
conflicts and or “Ghost” Installations. The big Yellow Exclamation mark is
BAD (aka Ghost Installation).

Windows XP SP2, and
Vista include Wireless Zero Configuration (WZC) which is very Cool utility that
is part of Windows, WZC makes it easy to configure a Wireless connection
regardless of the Wireless Hardware Brand.

In the past some cards were Not
fully compatible with WZC. Almost all cards released in the last two years
are compatible. Nevertheless almost all
cards come with their own Wireless Utility too.

Which one is better to use?

Most people prefer the universal
approach of WZC. Howvever it is a personal
choice if one gives you trouble try the other.

If try to use Windows WZC and it seems that it does not work, do not "Mess Up"
your Network setting. Switch Off WZC (stop
the service) and use the manufacturer Utility.

For the initial configuration, you
do not want Distance issues to impede the connection. Put the computer
with the Wireless Client close to the Wireless Router.

It is important
to disable temporarily the Wireless Security Options in order to establish a
solid connection. Once you establish a Solid Connection, and your
Internet/LAN works correctly, you can start enabling the security settings.

Important Note.
WEP or WPA on old cards might reduce the Wireless Distance of your Network;
Enable the security while the computer is still close to the Wireless Source.
Once it is working with the security measures of your choice move the computer
to it intended location.

If the move results in losing
the connection or it becomes unstable try to disable WEP (or WPA). If the
Wireless is working well with the WEP Off get a new Card. Increasing the
Wireless Distance by switching Off Security is highly risky.

If the Wireless Connection
does not work at the new location regardless of whether the Security is On or
Off, You have to increase the working Distance, or put the computer closer to
the source.